Benefits of Orthodontic Headgear

Headgear is the term used for any orthodontic appliance that straps around the head to exert outside pressure onto the patient’s teeth. While not every person who undergoes orthodontic treatment will need headgear, it is an important part of some treatment plans and has plenty of benefits.

Benefits of Orthodontic Headgear

Below are a few ways that orthodontic headgear appliances can benefit patients:

Exerts Additional Force – In most cases, the back molars provide enough support to move the teeth, but other times, extra pressure is needed to move the teeth quicker and more accurately. Headgear relies on a strap that goes behind the head or neck to apply this additional pressure.

Accelerates Orthodontics – One of the major benefits of headgear is that it can also speed up treatment time in cases that might usually be time-consuming and complex to treat. The additional force created by headgear helps to move teeth in a shorter amount of time.

Necessary in Some Cases – Lastly, orthodontists only use headgear when it’s deemed necessary. This includes cases where the front teeth need to be moved forward instead of back, closing a large gap, or in cases where a severe overbite or underbite is impeding your smile. Headgear may also be used in cases where the jaw isn’t developing properly, allowing proper facial development.

Orthodontic headgear is not necessary for all cases of orthodontics, but in some cases, both adults and children can benefit from it. If you do require headgear, try not to stress too much! It doesn’t need to be worn all day, typically only when you’re home or asleep and, with the help of headgear, your treatment will be over before you know it.

To schedule an orthodontic consultation or if you have questions or concerns about headgear, please contact Lockett Orthodontics located here in Colorado Springs, Colorado.